Tech Companies Unveil Aging-in-Place Innovations

By Kourtney Liepelt | January 11, 2016

A robot suit designed to show the wearer what it feels like to be older. A connected and interactive insole meant to keep the user’s feet warm. A smart spoon and fork aimed at counteracting tremors associated with Parkinson’s Disease.

Among the vast array of gizmos and gadgets on display last week at the 2016 Consumer Electronic Show (CES), the annual electronics and technology trade show held each January in Las Vegas, several might prove useful for older adults hoping to age in place and the home health sector seeking innovative solutions.

The R70i, a robotic ex-suit created by design firm Applied Minds, for example, provides perspective on the effect of aging. It employs an Oculus virtual reality headset and giant headphones to distort vision and hearing, while settings on the suit itself can be hanged to decrease mobility. And Applied Minds co-founder Bran Ferren said the suit could theoretically be used to return mobility and senses to the elderly, as well.

Other examples of aging-in-place conducive technology featured at 2016 CES includes:

VitalSnap: A new mobile technology launched by Validic, a digital health platform connecting health care organizations to data generated by consumer and clinical health technologies, VitalSnap enables users to record health data from an in-home device via their smartphone camera. This data can then be delivered to health care organizations.

Digitsole: The first-of-its-kind connected and interactive insole, Digitsole is designed to keep the wearer’s feet warm, with the ability to change temperature via smartphones. The gadget tracks activity, as well.

Smart SPOON and FORK, Smart CUP: Developed by GYENNO, the so-called Smart SPOON and FORK counteract hand tremors from Parkinson’s Disease and other conditions and collect data about the patient’s tremors. Meanwhile, the GYENNO Smart CUP incorporates an LCD screen that allows the drinker to customize and monitor drinking plans and set reminders to stay hydrated.

Lively Wearable: This activity wristband detects falls and includes an emergency response button to call for help, immediately notifying family members or caregivers.